Police Union Sues To Reinstate Officers

January 10, 1994

Harvey — The union representing police officers in Harvey claimed in a lawsuit filed Friday that the city and Police Chief Ronald Burge jeopardized the community and other police officers by removing four probationary officers from the force.

The suit, which seeks to reinstate the officers, said the move has left the Police Department so short-staffed that there aren't enough officers to patrol the city. The Illinois Fraternal Order of Police Labor Council, which brought the case, also claims that police officers have been left vulnerable by the situation, because officers must respond alone to calls.

Burge said he was trying to rectify any shortages by reassigning five officers now assigned to detective or traffic work for patrol duty. The chief also criticized the union, noting there appeared to be no concern about the safety of the city or personnel last month when several officers called in sick as part of a job action.